New COVID-19 Variant BA.3.2 Circulating in the U.S. And Globally
An emerging COVID-19 variant with a high number of mutations is being monitored by public health officials. The variant, called BA.3.2, has been detected in 25 U.S. States and at least 23 countries, according to reports from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
BA.3.2 carries approximately 70 to 75 mutations in its spike protein compared to JN.1-lineage viruses, which are targeted by current COVID-19 vaccines [1], [2].
Threat Level and Spread
Currently, levels of BA.3.2 remain low in the U.S., representing 0.19% of approximately 2,500 genetic sequences analyzed in national surveillance as of February 11, 2026 [4]. The CDC first identified the strain in the U.S. On June 27, 2025, in a traveler arriving from the Netherlands [2]. Detections began increasing in September 2025, with wastewater data often identifying the variant before clinical testing [2].
Internationally, BA.3.2 accounted for 30% of samples taken in Denmark, Germany, and the Netherlands between November 2025 and January 2026 [4].
Symptoms of BA.3.2
Symptoms of BA.3.2 appear similar to those seen with other Omicron-related variants [2]. Reported symptoms include:
- Cough
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Body aches
- Sore throat
- Sneezing
- Upper respiratory tract infections
- Nasal congestion or a runny nose
- Night sweats
- Skin rashes
- Fainting
- Loss of smell or taste (less frequently reported)
Asymptomatic infections have also been documented. Symptom severity can vary depending on age, underlying health conditions, and prior immunity [2].
Immune Evasion and Vaccine Effectiveness
The high number of mutations in BA.3.2 may help it evade protection from vaccination or prior infections [2]. The CDC notes that the variant efficiently evades antibodies due to spike protein mutations [4].
The World Health Organization (WHO) states that currently approved COVID-19 vaccines and antivirals are expected to continue providing protection against severe disease from BA.3.2 [3].
Origin and Monitoring
BA.3.2 was first identified in a respiratory sample in South Africa in November 2024 [2]. Researchers have nicknamed it “Cicada” due to its long period of dormancy before becoming more widespread [2].
The CDC continues to use genomic surveillance to track the evolution of SARS-CoV-2 and assess its potential impact on public health [4].
Current COVID-19 Landscape
As of March 17, 2026, COVID-19 cases are declining or likely declining in most of the U.S. [2]. The XFG variant currently accounts for the greatest proportion of cases. Though, more than 3,500 deaths in the U.S. Have occurred in 2026 where COVID-19 was a contributing factor [2].
Flu and RSV overshadowed COVID-19 this season, but public health officials urge vigilance and recommend updated vaccinations for all three viruses [2].
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